'Keep Stirchley Independent' protestors brave cold to send strong message to McDonald's

Dozens of Stirchley locals braved the snow and cold to protest against plans for a new McDonald's. The group was galvanised into action after the fast food giant revealed proposals for a build a drive-thru and restaurant on brownfield land off Hazelwell Lane.

McDonald's claim up to 100 full and part-time positions would be created, £45,000 generated in annual business rates and they are 'helping to enhance food choices for residents'. Meanwhile, some locals say the thriving independent food scene the the area is famed for would suffer, together with increases in anti-social behaviour, litter and traffic congestion.

On Tuesday, a parents group staged a gathering on Pershore Road, opposite the British Oak Pub, just as McDonald's held a public consultation at Stirchley Baths. People waved placards and speeches were given by Kirsten De Vos from Mum's For Lungs, John Munroe from Better Streets Birmingham and Kamel Hawash, the Independent candidate for Selly Oak.

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One of the protestors, Katy Nadin, said: "I was really moved to see how many people of all ages turned out on a snowy Tuesday afternoon to express how they feel about McDonald's. Hopefully they will take note and not think Stirchley is an easy target.

"We will be coordinating to oppose planning permission if they do decide to go ahead."

Emma Fisher, senior acquisitions surveyor from McDonald's, said last week: “We are excited by this opportunity to transform a vacant site into a new, modern McDonald’s restaurant, helping to enhance food choices for residents. The creation of a new restaurant will also deliver significant job opportunities for local people and provide welcomed investment into Stirchley’s economy.

“We are committed to working closely with the local community ahead of submitting a planning application to Birmingham Council. I would therefore encourage local people with an interest in the scheme to take part in our public consultation and share their views about our proposals with us directly.”